Eureka Springs, Arkansas Attractions: Thorncrown Chapel
Eureka Springs, Arkansas is the place to go for beautiful scenery, amazing heritage, and incredible architecture. One of the most beautiful structures in the Unites States is nestled right in the Ozark hills in Eureka Springs.
The Thorncrown Chapel, or the “Glass Chapel” as it is commonly referred to, is ranked fourth on the list of the list of the 20th Century’s Most Significant Structures. This little chapel follows only behind the Sears Tower, the Empire State Building, and the Chrysler Building. Pretty amazing for a town of less than 3000 people!
It’s no wonder Eureka Springs is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Arkansas. The Thorncrown Chapel is, by itself, enough to bring people from all over the world! This amazing structure was built in 1978 by Jim Reed and E. Fay Jones. Since the chapel opened in 1980, over 5 million people have visited this 48 foot tall chapel with 425 windows, and over 6000 square feet of glass. If that’s not enough to impress you, add the fact that it sits on top of 100 tons of native stone and colored flagstone. Maybe this is why critics have called this chapel “one of the finest religious spaces of modern time”.
Almost every major magazine in America has featured this little Eureka Springs chapel including Time, Newsweek, and Parade. In addition, the Thorncrown Chapel has been featured on television on several occasions such as NBC Nightly News and the 700 Club.
This awe-inspiring structure is 24 feet by 60 feet and is made of all organic materials to blend in it’s beautiful surroundings. Every structural element is no bigger than two men can carry, and larger elements were built on the floor and raised into place. The entire creation of this Eureka Springs wonder was a work of are – not just an architectural work.
Weddings are common to the Thorncrown chapel – so much that they have their own Minister and Photographer on site! It’s quite amazing to know how many weddings take place, and it’s obvious why. There is nothing quite as personal and inspirational as walking down a rock path in the middle of the Ozark hills to say your vows in a fairy-tale like chapel. It’s enough to make anyone feel like royalty!
If you are planning to visit Eureka Springs, don’t miss seeing this wonderful outdoor chapel. The chapel is open to visitors daily from 9am to 5pm and there is no charge. Donations are greatly appreciated, though, in order to help with maintenance. Buses and church groups are welcome to attend, and plenty of parking is available for convenience. Sunday Services are also held at 9am and 11am.
Leslie Wright is the author for EurekaSprings-Arkansas.comwhich is the largest network for Eureka Springs, Arkansas. You’ll find local hotspots and other inside information you can’t get anywhere else!
